With a well-rounded squad and promising transfer targets, Real Madrid’s ambitions are clear—they aim to compete fiercely on all fronts, including LaLiga and the Champions League
The addition of players like Aymeric Laporte and the development of young talents could see Real Madrid solidify their defense, enhance their depth, and sustain their dominance in Spain and Europe.
Ancelotti’s role remains pivotal, and his influence on transfer decisions could set the tone for Real Madrid’s continued success in the 2024-25 season.
As they prepare for El Clasico, Real Madrid’s current form and strategic moves in the transfer market point to a club ready to reassert its place at the top.
With strong performances and a well-planned squad, Real Madrid are primed for an exciting season full of potential trophies and unforgettable moments.
Aymeric Laporte’s potential move to Real Madrid represents a calculated investment in experience, tactical depth, and defensive quality. With injuries and an inconsistent defensive lineup holding them back, Real Madrid’s interest in Laporte signals their commitment to addressing squad depth and ensuring defensive resilience.
Also Read:Â Real Madrid Star Set for 4-Year Contract Extension Following Dramatic Exit U-Turn
Table of Contents
Real Madrid vs. Barcelona: Preview of the Season’s First El Clasico
Real Madrid will welcome arch-rivals Barcelona to the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday, October 26, 2024, for the first El Clasico of the LaLiga season.1
Carlo Ancelotti’s team is coming off an impressive 5-2 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, adding to their momentum as they prepare for their biggest domestic clash yet.
The stakes are high, as both clubs have maintained strong starts in LaLiga, with early-season performances hinting at an intense battle for supremacy in Spain. Here’s what to expect from the game and a look at the major Real Madrid transfer stories circulating on October 26, 2024.
Real Madrid’s Form and Key Players Ahead of El Clasico
Real Madrid enter El Clasico in excellent form, and their recent 5-2 win against Borussia Dortmund underscores their attacking strength and midfield control.
Carlo Ancelotti’s strategies have transformed Real Madrid into a high-scoring machine, with key players like Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, and Joselu stepping up. Bellingham, in particular, has been exceptional since joining Los Blancos, adding goals and creativity from midfield.
Vinicius, back from injury, is expected to be a major threat on the left wing, while Joselu’s resurgence offers Real a reliable option in front of goal. With Luka Modric and Toni Kroos managing the pace and rhythm in midfield, Real’s lineup for El Clasico looks formidable.
This combination of experience and youthful energy is exactly what Ancelotti has aimed to build upon as he takes his squad into the season’s most important clash yet.
Getting used to it 🤣💛 pic.twitter.com/6DeW5tOPxl
— Aymeric Laporte (@Laporte) October 22, 2024
Defensive Reinforcement: Aymeric Laporte in Real Madrid’s Sights
Amid their excellent form, Real Madrid are also eyeing reinforcements for their defense, with Euro 2024 winner Aymeric Laporte being a key target.
The Spanish center-back has impressed with his tactical awareness and defensive abilities for both club and country, making him a valuable addition to Los Blancos’ roster.
Currently playing for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, Laporte could be on the move if Real Madrid manage to secure a transfer deal with the club. Laporte’s potential addition to Madrid’s lineup could fortify their defense and reduce the load on veterans like David Alaba.
Ancelotti’s interest in Laporte is strategic, as the manager is keen on creating a balance between established defenders and rising stars like Antonio Rudiger and Ferland Mendy.
If the deal goes through, Laporte’s La Liga experience from his time at Athletic Bilbao could offer Real Madrid an immediate impact and further their defensive depth in the Spanish league.
Real Madrid Pursue Emerging South American Talent
Real Madrid’s scouting network is renowned for identifying promising talent early, and reports suggest that the club has set its sights on a rising South American defender.2
While specific details are still scarce, this young defender has been described as a versatile player capable of adapting to multiple positions in defense.
Madrid’s interest in the South American market has consistently yielded impressive results, with players like Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo, and Federico Valverde showcasing the club’s ability to develop emerging talents.
With the possibility of acquiring this player, Real Madrid would be investing in a long-term option that could become an essential part of their defense for years to come.
The timing could also be beneficial, as Madrid’s squad has several veteran defenders, and the club will need younger players who can step in as they look to build a new generation of stars.
Transfer Speculation: Real Madrid’s Midfield Plans Amid Modric and Kroos’s Aging
While Ancelotti has benefited greatly from Luka Modric and Toni Kroos’s experience, their playing time is expected to decrease as Real Madrid look to integrate younger options.
Eduardo Camavinga, Federico Valverde, and Aurélien Tchouaméni have all shown flashes of brilliance, indicating a promising midfield future. Reports suggest that Madrid may also be interested in a versatile, younger midfielder to gradually replace their aging stars.
The possible arrival of another young midfielder would align with Real’s vision to refresh their squad without sacrificing their style.
Ancelotti is keen on finding a balance between youth and experience, and a new signing would fit well with the club’s strategy of gradual succession planning in midfield.
Is Real Madrid Seeking a New Backup for Courtois?
Thibaut Courtois has been a stalwart in Real Madrid’s goal, but his injuries have highlighted the need for a capable backup.3
Andriy Lunin has been Courtois’ understudy, but questions have surfaced regarding whether he can consistently step up when needed.
Rumors suggest that Real Madrid might explore options in the upcoming transfer window for a reliable goalkeeper who could deputize for Courtois and even challenge Lunin’s place.
This move could provide Madrid with greater depth and security at the back, especially if they continue to compete on multiple fronts.
With a potential goalkeeping addition, Real Madrid would be prepared for any unexpected setbacks in the position, which is vital for sustained success across both domestic and European competitions.
 Real Madrid’s Strategy for Outgoing Players
While Los Blancos are active in strengthening their squad, there are likely to be a few departures as well.
Eden Hazard, Mariano Diaz, and Alvaro Odriozola have been the subject of exit rumors, as they have struggled for consistent game time under Ancelotti.
Hazard, once considered a marquee signing, has faced injuries and lackluster performances that have hindered his progress at Madrid. For Hazard and Mariano Diaz, moves to other European clubs are likely options, with the potential for a fresh start.
Odriozola, who has found himself behind Dani Carvajal in the pecking order, is also looking at a move away for more playing time.
Ancelotti’s system has often overlooked these players, and Real Madrid could capitalize on their departure to free up funds and squad space for their transfer targets.
The Carlo Ancelotti Factor
Carlo Ancelotti’s influence on Real Madrid’s transfer strategy is noteworthy, as he has consistently emphasized a balance of experience and youth.
His approach has led to the emergence of players like Bellingham and Rodrygo while still maximizing the value of veterans like Kroos and Modric.
Ancelotti’s successful balance has given Madrid a competitive edge, and his insights will likely play a key role in upcoming transfers.
His approach, described as pragmatic and strategic, aligns with Real Madrid’s long-term ambitions of both nurturing young talents and maintaining an elite squad. Whether it’s the pursuit of Laporte or interest in emerging talents, Ancelotti’s choices highlight his understanding of what the club needs to succeed.
Also Read: Real Madrid’s Shock Move for Barcelona Ace – Could Aurelien Tchouameni Join Arsenal?
Real Madrid’s Pursuit of Aymeric Laporte
A Strategic Move for Defensive Reinforcement
Real Madrid’s ambitions to reclaim domestic and European glory in the 2024-25 season could hinge on solidifying their defense.
With injuries plaguing key defenders and concerns about squad depth, Real Madrid’s management is reportedly eyeing Aymeric Laporte as a possible defensive reinforcement.
Laporte, who currently plays for Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, has the experience and skill set that could add depth and quality to Real Madrid’s backline.
Here’s a breakdown of why Real Madrid is considering Laporte, the current state of their defense, and what his addition could mean for the team’s future.
The State of Real Madrid’s Current DefenseReal Madrid has long prided itself on a formidable defense, yet recent injuries and form concerns have placed the squad in a precarious position.
Key player David Alaba has been sidelined since 2023 with an ACL injury, which left a significant void in the defense. Alaba’s absence forced the team to rely heavily on the partnership of Antonio Rudiger and Eder Militao.
However, Militao himself has struggled with injuries over the past seasons, making it difficult for Madrid to maintain a consistent defensive lineup.
Alongside Rudiger and Militao, Carlo Ancelotti has called upon Aurelien Tchouameni to temporarily reinforce the backline. Originally a midfielder, Tchouameni is a versatile player who has filled in admirably. However, Madrid’s heavy reliance on his adaptability underscores the need for a reliable, natural center-back.
Jesus Vallejo, another squad member, hasn’t secured Ancelotti’s confidence, which leaves the club without the depth required to handle a packed domestic and European schedule effectively.
Why Aymeric Laporte is an Attractive Option for Madrid?
Laporte’s experience, tactical awareness, and defensive solidity make him a strong candidate to join Real Madrid’s ranks.
The 29-year-old Spaniard has proven himself at some of the top clubs in Europe, with stints at Athletic Bilbao and Manchester City. During his time at City, he won four Premier League titles and demonstrated his ability to thrive in high-pressure situations.
His vision, technical skills, and composure on the ball make him a well-rounded defender capable of leading from the back and contributing to the buildup play—a quality Madrid values highly.
At Al-Nassr, Laporte has continued to showcase his skills, although reports suggest he would be open to a return to Europe. The Saudi league offers a competitive environment, but a move back to Europe, particularly to a club like Real Madrid, would give him a chance to play at the highest level in the UEFA Champions League once again.
Laporte’s left-footedness, too, would complement Real Madrid’s defense, offering a natural balance when paired with right-footed options like Rudiger and Militao.
View this post on Instagram
The Financial Aspect of a Potential Transfer
- Real Madrid is known for its strategic investments, and their approach to bolstering the backline will be no different.
- While January could have been an option, the club has chosen to hold off on a midseason acquisition, likely due to the financial considerations and the limitations of the winter transfer market.
- Laporte’s current contract with Al-Nassr reportedly includes a substantial buyout clause, which Real Madrid would prefer to negotiate down to avoid inflating their wage bill.
- Al-Nassr may not be eager to lose Laporte midseason, so a summer move seems more likely. This timing would allow Real Madrid to focus on their budget planning and long-term strategy.
- With Laporte’s potential transfer fee projected to be reasonable compared to younger, high-market defenders, Real Madrid could secure a quality addition without compromising other parts of their roster.
- Laporte’s desire to return to Europe may further incentivize Al-Nassr to negotiate, making a summer transfer mutually beneficial.
Also Read: Florian Wirtz Blow for Real Madrid: The Transfer That Could Have Been
